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Introduction
The pumpkin spice craze has taken the world by storm, transforming this humble seasonal squash into a beloved flavor that signals the arrival of Fall. These pumpkin spice energy balls pay homage to this beloved tradition while offering a nutritious twist. Dating back to the early colonial era, pumpkin was a staple ingredient for settlers, who creatively incorporated it into various dishes. These energy bites continue that legacy, combining the warmth of pumpkin spice with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, creating a portable snack perfect for enjoying the crisp autumn air on a hike or as a pick-me-up during a busy day.
Ingredients
• 1 cup (225g) pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup (80g) rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (60g) almond meal or finely ground almonds
• 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup (35g) pumpkin seeds or pepitas
• 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped walnuts or pecans
• 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseeds or chia seeds
• 2 teaspoons (4g) pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon (2g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) fine sea salt
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Step 2:
Add the rolled oats, almond meal (or finely ground almonds), pumpkin seeds (or pepitas), and chopped walnuts (or pecans) to the bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture starts to form a sticky dough.
Step 3:
Scoop out heaping tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
Step 4:
Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Roast a small pumpkin or sugar pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth.
Q: Can these energy balls be frozen?
A: Yes, you can freeze these energy balls for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before consuming.
Q: Are these energy balls suitable for a vegan diet?
A: Yes, these energy balls are vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Use canned pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin.
• For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Substitute other nuts or seeds for walnuts or pepitas, if desired.
• For a nut-free version, replace almond meal with oat flour or more rolled oats.
• These energy balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Contains nuts, seeds, and may contain traces of other allergens depending on the specific ingredients used.
Serve the energy balls chilled or at room temperature as a snack or a post-workout treat.
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Prepare the energy balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
- For extra sweetness, add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or honey to the mixture.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of plant-based milk or water to help bind the ingredients together.
- Roll the energy balls in additional chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut for a crunchy exterior.
For a chocolate twist, add 2-3 tablespoons of cacao powder or cocoa powder to the mixture. For a tropical twist, substitute pumpkin puree with mashed banana or pineapple.
Pair these energy balls with a cup of warm spiced apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte.
Fall
This recipe contains nuts (almonds, walnuts or pecans), seeds (pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds or chia seeds), and may contain traces of other allergens depending on the specific ingredients used.
